Durham hosts US sister city delegation

A County Durham cultural exchange showcased the region to American visitors.

A delegation from Durham, North Carolina, sister city to Durham, UK, was welcomed across County Durham as part of a programme organised by Durham County Council and Visit County Durham.

The visit highlighted the county’s heritage, cultural attractions, thriving food and drink sector and investment potential.

This included a showcase of local producers through the Taste Durham initiative, as well as a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Durham Cathedral and Castle. 

Bishop Auckland featured prominently, with the delegation exploring The Auckland Project, including the Spanish Gallery – the first UK venue dedicated to Spain’s Golden Age – and the restored historic gardens at Auckland Palace.

Councillor Sam Zair, mayor of Bishop Auckland, said: “It was an honour to welcome our friends from across the pond to Bishop Auckland. 

“Our two communities share not only a name but also creativity and pride in our heritage. 

“Visits like this strengthen those bonds and showcase the remarkable progress being made here through organisations like The Auckland Project and Visit County Durham. 

“We look forward to continuing to build on this friendship in the years to come.”

Arabella Lawler, visitor development coordinator at The Auckland Project, added: “It was a pleasure to welcome visitors from Durham, North Carolina, and to share the story of Bishop Auckland’s cultural and community regeneration. 

“Visits like this highlight the global connections being forged through heritage, tourism and shared values.”

Raby Castle also hosted a new ‘American USA Connections’ tour, highlighting transatlantic heritage links.

Beyond heritage, the delegation met with civic, university and business leaders, including Durham University and Business Durham, to discuss international collaboration and shared best practices. 

Councillor Andrew Husband, leader of Durham County Council, added: “It was a great honour to welcome our friends from Durham, North Carolina in the spirit of cooperation, shared understanding and enduring friendship.

“For nearly five decades, our two Durhams have been connected not only by name, but by a shared sense of identity, cultural pride and aspiration.

“This visit provided a powerful opportunity to showcase County Durham’s world- renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site of Durham Castle & Cathedral, and visits to key destinations across the county that reflect our rich heritage, culture, culinary excellence, natural beauty and collaborative spirit.”

Michelle Gorman, managing director at Visit County Durham, added: “This visit is a fantastic example of how cultural exchange and partnership working can strengthen international links and shine a light on the incredible tourism offer we have here in County Durham. 

“By showcasing our heritage, landscapes and warm welcome, we’re helping to position the county as a compelling destination for global visitors.”

The visit promoted people-to-people links, cultural understanding and opportunities for future investment, reinforcing the 48-year sister city relationship between the two Durhams.

Eve Marion, co-chair for the Sister Cities of Durham, Durham North Carolina, added: “Our time in County Durham has been inspiring, memorable and deeply meaningful.

“From the warmth of the welcome to the insight shared by local producers, heritage teams and community organisations, this visit highlighted the shared values that connect our two Durhams.

“We leave with a strengthened appreciation for our partnership, and a renewed sense of what future collaboration could bring.”

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